Kerala UDF coalition faces internal friction over decision-making and appointments

Internal friction has emerged within Kerala’s ruling United Democratic Front (UDF) following public grievances regarding coalition coordination and cabinet-rank appointments.

UDF convenor Adoor Prakash expressed concerns that major government decisions are being finalized without prior joint discussions among alliance partners. While Prakash dismissed rumors of a formal split between the Congress and the UDF, he noted that the alliance has only held one meeting since assuming power, citing Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan’s schedule and emergency responses to landslides as factors.

Simultaneously, the Kerala Congress has voiced displeasure over the perceived sidelining of senior leader P J Joseph. The party claims an understanding existed to grant Joseph a cabinet-rank position, noting that such roles have been allotted to other alliance members like the Indian Union Muslim League and the Forward Bloc. Kerala Congress leaders intend to meet with the Chief Minister to reiterate their demand for Joseph to be appointed to a commission, such as the Administrative Reforms Commission or the Commission for the Elderly.